Treatment of Soft Tissue Injury: RICE

RICE is an acronym used to remember the treatment of a soft tissue injury:

Rest is vital to prevent further damage and to allow the body to heal.

Ice bags, cold packs or food such as a frozen bag of peas may be applied to the injury. Ensure ice is never placed directly on to the skin: wrap ice bags, loose ice or frozen peas with a cloth. Do not leave the ice pack etc on the injury for longer than 15 minutes.

Compression will reduce swelling and will also allow the patient to walk should the injury occur to an ankle. To compress the injured area, wrap a bandage around the swollen part.

Elevating the injury will also reduce swelling, as the blood will be prevented by the effect of gravity from rushing to the site of the injury. Seek medical aid.